Product News

Explosion-proof safety switches are for applications with potentially explosive atmospheres. Each Ex switch incorporates a sealed flame-proof contact block, making the units suitable for use in Zone 1 and 2 environments such as those found in the chemical, petrochemical, powder and pressurized-container filling, and gas/oil-processing industries.

Surface-mount high-current common mode choke features impedance of 200{OMEGA} ±20% @ 100 MHz and more than 200{OMEGA} @ 300 MHz. Part number 2944051447 offers a dc resistance of less than 3 milliohm and a current carrying capacity of 5A. The windings are placed on a material core that provides an isolation of 100 megaohm and a breakdown voltage of more than 1,000V between conductors.

TH Series load cells/force sensors are for thru-hole applications such as bolt force measurements and overload monitoring. They are compression only and available in multiple outside diameters of 1.0, 1.5, 2.0, and 3.0 inches, all with multiple inside diameter combinations. Capacity ranges from 100 through 50,000 lbs are available with maximum full-scale non-linearity of ±0.5%. Output is 2 MV/V nominal via full wheat-stone strain-gage bridge. Load cells are supplied with a calibration certificate traceable to NIST.

Engineered-fiber spring-belted rubber spring is designed to squeeze out nitrogen. It is a pressure control device for blanking, stripping, forming, and actuating jobs. Protective-steel end caps provide for easier mounting and for heat dissipation. Adjustable pre-load eliminates set and matches spring pressure to job requirements.

Lamina, Box 31, Royal Oak, MI 48068.

Uninterruptible power supply

EPS 6000 three-phase UPS 150 to 750 kVA provides uninterruptible power and conditioning for computers, factory floor, process control, telecommunications, and health-care facilities, among others. Rated for 100% non-linear loads with current crest factors as high as 3.5 with no derating, the unit's output-voltage total distortion is less than 4%.

Size 70 and 80 Dura-Flex® couplings are for variable-speed and variable-torque requirements in pumps, compressors, blowers, fans, mixers, and conveyors. The "split-in-half element" technology used eliminates the need to move heavy equipment for installation. The design of the couplings also moves stress away from the bond to maximize flex life. The flex element optimizes performance and provides superior chemical and weathering properties. It consists of a poly-urethane material bonded to steel shoes and bolted to metallic shaft hubs. The Dura-Flex couplings are directly interchangeable with similar elastomeric couplings.

TB Wood's Inc., 440 North Fifth Ave., Chambersburg, PA 17201.

Bearings

Precision bearings are for aircraft, airframe, and aerospace applications. Offerings include standard off-the-shelf designs, as well as modified or specially configured "designed-to-order" bearings. These bearings are custom-engineered for specific applications on fixed-wing aircraft and helicopters, for both military and commercial services.

GPO42A precision, planetary gearhead features metal construction and ball bearings to provide high torque output and radial load. The gearhead measures 42 mm in diameter; weighs 415 to 720 gm; and is 72.5 to 115.5 mm in length, depending on the ratio. Eight available ratios range from 4.33:1 to 216:1. Maximum continuous torque is 2.94 to 14.7 Nm and maximum intermittent torque is 5.88 to 24.5 Nm. The recommended input speed is 5,000 rpm maximum, the maximum radial load is 294 N at 12.5 mm from the flange, and the axial load is 294 N. Recommended temperature is -20 to 80C. The gearhead's efficiency is rated at up to 85% depending on the number of stages.

Intech Power-CoreTM gears are custom machined from high-performance unitized blanks. A composite, 100% crystalline material is cast onto a metal core into which the bore, keyway, and set-screw threads have been machined. The gear keyway has a set screw cut into the metal hub to capture the strength of the metal and provide a secure gear-to-shaft engagement. Self-correcting adjustment is provided in instances of minor mis-alignment. The non-hygroscopic gear material is applicable in operations where frequent washdowns or hostile-temperature and high-moisture enviro-nments exist.

PTFE Temperature-sensing probes prevent contamination of sensitive media, eliminate replacement, and reduce downtime. The probe body and the PTFE-covered connecting cable are molded together to create a seal-free continuous unit. Platinum resistance, thermocouple, and thermistor temperature-sensing devices are available. All probes come in standard versions and can be customized to user specification.

Multi Arm-Evac® II fume extractor captures harmful fumes at the source and recirculates clean air back into the work environment. A HEPA/Gas-filter cartridge is included for removing fine particulates and gases. The system measures 14.5×11×11 inches and weighs 31 lbs. Features include a maintenance-free, brushless motor pump; high airflow; and quiet operation. The Multi Arm-Evav II can be connected to a wide range of arms, plenums, and accessories that are used in one- or two-workstation applications.

PACE Inc., 9893 Brewers Ct., Laurel, MD 20723, FAX (301) 498-3252.

Gearheads

Nema TRUE PlusTM planetary gearheads have a peak radial load capacity of 750 lbs. The torque capacity is 1,600 in-lbs and backlash ratings are as low as 8 arc-minutes. Gearheads are available in NEMA 23, 34, and 42 frame sizes, and offer ratios of 3, 5, and 10:1 for single-stage, and 15, 25, 30, 50, and 100:1 for two-stage reductions. The high-precision stainless-steel gears are hardened to HRC 55-60. A lifetime grease lubrication minimizes maintenance and downtime.

MicroDIN, a DIN rail-mount temperature control features an easy-to-use communications interface for use within distributed control systems. The controller uses the ModbusTM standard communications protocol and offers front bezels in four languages including English, French, Spanish, and German. The behind-the-panel, DIN rail-ount design eliminates the need for panel hole punching and simplifies panel wiring. Touch-safe removable connectors result in low installation costs and minimal down-time for service and repair.

Right-angle, surface-mount, miniature power jack has a sleeve/shunt spring that functions as a built-in switch, permitting automatic switchover from ac to dc when a plug is inserted or withdrawn. A flat-top housing aids in automatic placement on pc boards. Jacks are available with three center-pin diameters of 0.100, 0.80, and 0.050 inch. All materials are heat-resistant for high-temperature soldering. An optional post secures the jack to the pc board during insertion and withdrawal. The jack is suited for applications such as battery chargers, dc-powered hand-held instrumentation, and portable computers.

POWERSYNCTM ac-synchronous motors are available in NEMA 34 and 42 frame sizes. They offer precision sychronous speed at 60 or 72 rpm, 120 or 240V ac in 50- or 60-Hz models. Features include optimal magnetics for maximum performance in each frame size, high torque output up to 1,500 oz-inches (93.75 lb-inches), and precise bi-directional motion for low-velocity constant-speed applications. The motors have NEMA and metric mountings, feature UL and European Compliance ratings, and are sealed per IP65 washdown requirements.

No. 6000-R/L and 1-6000-R/L recessed push-button compartment slam latches are for use on access doors. No. 6000-R/L is for 3/4-inch-thick panels, while No. 1-6000-R/L is for 11/16-inch-thick panels. The series features a stylish push-button handle design both inside and out to provide easy opening, as well as an external key lock and an internal lock knob. Four screws secure the inner and outer components, providing weather-resistance. The latch is constructed of ASA/PVC alloy and offers long-lasting durability and corrosion protection.

Injection-molded plastic rails are for use with a highly configurable, modular chassis system that allows the user to construct a PC/104 stack that plugs into power, and connects to I/O and video. The rails, designed to hold PC/104 cards via a four-point system, are an economical alternative to aluminum and maintain the durability required to withstand the harsh conditions of most PC/104 applications.

Single-mode fiber-optic transmission systems send video PTZ control signals over a single optical fiber at distances of more than 40 km. FX/FR-5800-7 transmits video, two-way audio, and PTZ control signals. FX/FR-5805A-7 transmits video and two-way PTZ control. FX/FR-5820A-7 transmits video and one-way PTZ control. All systems operate at a single-optical wavelength of 1,300 # nm and can be used with standard single-mode optical fiber. Video channels are compatible with NTSC, PAL, and SEAM standards. Operating power is from 12 to 18V ac/dc.

Optical-fiber flat manifold protects primary fiber from cable-element tubing or a blown fiber unit. The input tube is secured by a clamping system molded into the product. Each output fiber is protected in a PTFE tube. Guides in a snap-on lid help thread the fibers, while a lay-through design prevents fiber kinking or breakage. Fiber can easily be installed while still controlling all bend radii. The maximum capacity is twelve fibers. Mounting can be done with a self-adhesive pad or integral screw holes that allow stacking.

Richco, 5825 N. Tripp Ave., Chicago, IL 60646, FAX (773) 539-0236.

Coupling

This multi-functional coupling is made from aluminum. Using a standard, flexible-shaft coupling as a basis, the flexure has been integrated with a 20-cog (18 degree steps) light gate and a 0.25-inch-wide slot for an "absolute point."

MSR Series ac/dc film capacitors feature a self-healing design with oil-impregnated dielectrics, aluminum cans with pressure interrupts, and stud mounts with terminations in either AMP or screw terminals. Voltage ratings range from 420 to 900V ac and capacitance ratings exist from 42µFd at 420V ac to 15µFd at 900V ac. The operational lifetime rating is in excess of 100,000 hours, depending on the voltage. Applications include power conditioning, EMI/RFI line filtration, factory automation equipment, medical electronic gear, and transportation equipment.

Ergonomically designed polyethylene glove boxes feature a fluorescent light that illuminates the working chamber. Three models are available; side door only, gas-purge pass box, or vacuum pass box. Each comes equipped with two 1/4-inch needle valves, one pair of 24-inch latex gloves, a set of glove bands, and a fluorescent light.

320/420 Series 1/4-inch ported 3- and 4-way direct-acting solenoid valves feature a short-stroke balanced poppet design that allows them to function in a variety of pneumatic applications. The valve design permits rapid cycling with excellent flow characteristics; requires no lubrication; and is tolerant of impurities in the air system, ensuring positive sealing. Both valves are rated for air and inert gas from vacuum at 28-inches Hg to 125 psig. The valves feature a continuous-duty coil with a power consumption of 8.0W, flying leads, and a push-button/spring-return manual override.

SC8800 and SC8800E motion controllers are programmable via an RS-232C connection that interfaces to a computer or ASCII-based terminal. The instruction-set software is permanently stored in the controller. 78 high-level commands in "basic" language format are used to control the step motor's motion profiles. The controllers operate on 10 to 20V dc and have up to 8 Kbytes of programmable non-volatile memory. The SC8800E model features encoder feedback capability and accepts 2- or 3-channel digital voltage signals for position feedback verification. This compact unit has a position range from 0 to ±999,999,999 steps per index move and a velocity range from 1 to 800,000 steps per second.

Brass manifold provides a junction for the hook-up of multi-branch distribution lines for air, water, and hydraulic fluid on a range of equipment including injection-molding coolant lines, packaging equipment, air-logic systems, and specialized industrial machinery. The manifold has five 1/8- and five 1/4-inch side ports. Two 3/8-inch inlet ports allow for maximum flow. Universal dual-sided 7/32-inch mounting holes allow for easy manifold attachment. Manifold is machined from CA360 brass and has a working temperature from -65 to +250F at 1,000 psi maximum.

Solid and two-piece shaft collars include clamping, threaded, and set-screw types. They are available in stainless steel, black-oxide steel, and aluminum in a series of inch and metric sizes with standard bores up to six inches. Collars can be manufactured with outside diameters up to 16 inches and tolerances to 0.0005 inch.

AM1020 permanent-magnet stepping motor measures 10 mm (0.3 inches) in diameter and provides holding torques of up to 0.34 oz-inch. The motor comes in both voltage and current-drive versions. The motor is compatible with a wide range of precision spur and planetary gearheads and can be ordered with 19 companion gearheads that have ratios from 4:1 to 154,368:1. Applications include miniature positioning stages, analytical instruments, test and measurement equipment, and micropumps.

SPT-034 is a low-profile surface-mounted transformer designed for use in V.34 (28.8 Kbps) modems. The transformer utilizes supplementary insulation and is designed for dry (0 dc) applications. The maximum dimensions are 0.660 × 0.660 × 0.178 inches high. The maximum toe-to-toe dimension across the leadframe is 0.800 inch. Primary to secondary creepage distance is 2.5 mm minimum.

TriFIX software allows users to take CAD-generated STL files and ensure the production high-quality prototypes. TriFIX repairs gaps that exist in the CAD models, regardless of size or complexity. Duplicate triangles, nodes, triangles with less than a given height, intersecting triangles, and triangles that have more than one other triangle sharing an edge can be removed. The softwaare also divides large CAD models into pieces small enough to be processed as a series of sections on desk-top prototyping systems.

NOMAR® rigid-shaft couplings family includes full-metric couplings, step-bore couplings, and couplings with bores from 1/4 to 2 inches. Couplings come in one- and two-piece clamp-style designs and are available in carbon steel, stainless steel, and aluminum. Rigid couplings are suitable where high torsional strength, zero backlash, and maintained alignment are desired. Larger bore-sized rigid couplings are generally used for shaft-to-shaft connections to facilitate assembly and maintenance. Smaller bore-sized rigid couplings are applicable in motion-control applications where misalignment is either not present or not desired.

Cobra 3-axis, horizontal, CNC machining module for multi-station operation is available in four different sizes. The module features two water-cooled spindles with a standard speed of 15,000 rpm and a low noise level. The unit offers a simultaneous machining and loading/unloading feature and adapatability to multi-station operation via rotary transfer systems. Hydraulic clamping of the tool and workpiece accommodates complicated shapes. Each module comes equipped with a quick-change tool magazine that holds 36, 48, 72, or 144 tools. Feed axes are driven by digital, ac servo motors.

T-30 air starter thrives on contaminated air, sour gas, and poor environmental conditions, yet is maintenance free. Its design features no plastic or composite materials. A vane-less twin-turbine motor provides a quick engine start by generating up to 25% more stall torque than other starters. A steel motor-inlet housing and low-mass turbine rotors ensure fail-safe operation. The T-30's open-air-path design tolerates clogging or damaging conditions. The starter is corrosion resistant and suited for marine applications.

Nadella guide rollers are for moving moderate to heavy loads and offer a wide range of roller and guide-rail options. Structures include both ball and needle elements. Concentric and eccentric screw pins make adjustment easy and facilitate clearance-free function. Rollers are suitable for packaging equipment, door guides, and special lifting equipment.

Stitchable, flexible, polyurethane-encapsulated emblems are available in a wide range of colors, sizes, and shapes. Polyurethane provides flexibility and durability. Direct application by a stitching machine provides a high-quality, three-dimensional decorative nameplate or emblem. Emblems can be used with gloves, footwear, luggage, seats, golf bags, and apparel.

TCS200 Series tactical computer system (TCS) provides reliability for tough factory-floor environments and high computer power to handle complex process-control applications. The system combines a single-board industrial computer with a high-resolution, 10.4-inch flat-panel display as well as a number of storage and interface options. The open-architecture unit uses an industrial plug-in CPU combined with a passive, four-slot ISA backplane. Systems range from 486DX-66 through optional Pentium P133 processors with up to 32 Mbyte RAM and the choice of Windows 95 or NT. Display options range from standard LCD monochrome to active matrix, TFT color. Storage options include up to 800-Mbyte- capacity hard drives, solid-state flash drives, and PCMCIA memory cards.

Flexible-shaft screwdrivers tighten hose clamps in hard to reach areas without slipping. Screwdrivers feature a steel-spiral shaft that can bend up to 90 degrees in any direction and provide enough torquing force to fully tighten the clamp. An impact-resistant plastic handle provides an ergonomic grip. Corrosion protection on the entire shaft and head prevents rusting. The hexagonal head fits the entire family of ABA and AWAB clamps. Screwdrivers are available in 10 or 24 inches.

Power-ProTM 25 is a lightweight portable plasma-cutting system with a Unity Power Factor (UPF) rating that makes the system suitable for use with gas generators. The system packs 25A into a compact unit that weighs under 36 lbs. Standard features include: 25A cutting current, auto-sense input voltage that shifts to 220 or 110 automatically, HCMC current mode control for stable arcs, cutting thickness to sever up to 1/2 inch, optional electronic ignition with auto retrigger pilot arc, and extra long consumable life.

Smith Equipment, 2601 Lockheed Ave., Watertown, SD 57201.

Actuators

Linear electromagnetic inertial-force actuators provide high-performance active vibration control. They are also used as vibrators over a wide range of frequencies and forces. The actuators offer a high-output force-to-size relationship, provide output from one to 300 lbs, and accommodate custom designs. Inertial actuators actively produce mass reaction forces onto the surface on which they are mounted. Axial force actuators with shaft output apply force between the mounting surface and a driven element, often in parallel with passive elements. All units are durable, high-temperature tolerant, and completely sealed.

NEMA 5-15P male bridge terminals meet UL1659 requirements and allow all three wires to be terminated at the same time. They come pre-assembled, so loading the mold is as easy as plugging a power cord into a wall receptacle. Features include reduced carpal-tunnel fatigue, molding cycle time, and overall plug costs.

Model 1.24.375 single-output linear power supply has an output of 24V at 375 mA. Case size is 3.5 × 2.5 × 1.56 inches. The power supply is designed for pc-board mounting, and kits are available for screw-terminal connections and backplane mounting. Line and load regulation is ±0.04%. Noise and ripple is 2 mV RMS. Voltage accuracy is ±0.5%. Features include current-limiting short-circuit protection for fail-safe operation. Isolation voltage is 1,500V RMS. Case-operating temperature range is -25 to +50C. Input voltage options are 100, 115, 220, 230, and 240V ac.

GPD 333 and GPD 515 variable-speed drives are available with DeviceNetTM interfacing for network communication. DeviceNetTM connects industrial devices to a network and eliminates expansive hardwiring. Direct connectivity provides improved communication between devices and device-level diagnostics that are not easily accessible through hardwired I/O interfaces. This link supports up to 64 devices on a single network at data rates up to 500 kbaud.

POWERMAX IITM hybrid step motors offer flying leads or cabling that terminate directly to the internal motor connections. The leads and cabling are available in a four- lead series or parallel configurations plus an eight-lead configuration to provide flexibility. The direct connection provides the highest possible interconnection integrity, especially in applications where motors are subjected to continuous lead flexing or vibration. The integral flying lead or cable versions feature 100% pin-to-pin isolation, and pins-to-lead receptacles that mate on all four sides.

Four-channel CompuSwitch model controls up to four PCs, any combination of PS/2 and AT systems, from a single keyboard, monitor, and mouse. Users can manage network servers, Internet servers, multiple workstations, bulletin-board systems, and computer-test benches. CompuSwitch supports any mix of PCs with PS/2 and serial mouse ports, and features a space-saving 1.75-inch desktop chassis, a 1U optional rackmount kit, hot-key commands, front-panel selector and control buttons, and user-adjustable scan function.

SolidWorks 97 features more than 175 enhancements including enhanced assembly and part modeling, sheet-metal design, more than 65 new drafting and detailing capabilities, ease-of-use improvements, and extensions for the Internet. The software supports both Windows and Windows NT, exports and imports in SAT format, and is compatible with any ACIS-based modeler. Enhanced STL exporting allows users to set output to either ASCII or binary format.

The Vibranix vibration compensation balances vibratory forces in the drive unit, reducing the need for sound isolation measures and large counterweights. Drives and components are available separately or as turnkey systems to provide the required feed rate and orientation.

A few weeks ago, Ford Motor Co. quietly announced that it was rolling out a new wrinkle to the powerful safety feature called stability control, adding even more lifesaving potential to a technology that has already been very successful.

It won't be too much longer and hardware design, as we used to know it, will be remembered alongside the slide rule and the Karnaugh map. You will need to move beyond those familiar bits and bytes into the new world of software centric design.

People who want to take advantage of solar energy in their homes no longer need to install a bolt-on solar-panel system atop their houses -- they can integrate solar-energy-harvesting shingles directing into an existing or new roof instead.

Focus on Fundamentals consists of 45-minute on-line classes that cover a host of technologies. You learn without leaving the comfort of your desk. All classes are taught by subject-matter experts and all are archived. So if you can't attend live, attend at your convenience.